# undoubtedly

/ənˈdaʊtɪdɫi/ (US) · /ʌndˈaʊtɪdli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undoubtedly
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

used to say that something is definitely true and nobody can argue with it. You use it when you are completely sure about a fact or an opinion.

For teachers: without any doubt; certainly. Functions as a sentence-modifying disjunct to emphasize the speaker's certainty regarding the truth of a proposition.

## Examples

- She is undoubtedly the best player on the team.
- The new policy is undoubtedly a step in the right direction for environmental protection.
- While the initial investment is high, the long-term benefits of renewable energy are undoubtedly superior to those of fossil fuels.

## Pitfalls

- Not "It is undoubtedly that he will win." but "He will undoubtedly win." — Undoubtedly is an adverb and cannot be used as a predicate adjective following 'It is'; use 'undoubted' or 'beyond doubt' in that structure.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the main verb, after the auxiliary verb, or at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.